How to Put On Compression Socks (Even Without Help)

Quick answer: put compression socks on first thing in the morning, while your legs are least swollen. Turn the sock inside out down to the heel, slide your foot into the foot part, pull it over your heel, then gently roll the rest up your leg a little at a time, smoothing as you go. If bending or grip is hard, sit down, wear rubber dishwashing gloves for grip, and use a sock aid. Start with a lighter strength, which is much easier to put on.

Step by step: how to put on compression socks

1. Sit down in a sturdy chair with your foot flat on the floor. Don't try to do it standing on one leg.
2. Make sure your legs are dry. If you use lotion, put it on at night instead, or let it soak in fully first. Damp or greasy skin makes the sock stick.
3. Turn the sock inside out down to the heel. Put your hand inside, grab the heel, and pull the leg of the sock inside out over your hand so only the foot part is right side out.
4. Slide your foot in as far as it goes, toes first, and line the heel of the sock up with your heel.
5. Roll the leg up gradually. Ease the rest of the sock over your heel and up your leg a few inches at a time. Don't grab the top and yank.
6. Smooth out wrinkles with the flat of your hands. Folds and bunching can dig in.
7. Check the top. It should sit about two finger-widths below the bend of your knee, and never be folded over.

How to put on compression socks without help

Many people find the hardest part is reaching their feet or getting enough grip. These tips help:

• Use rubber gloves. Ordinary dishwashing gloves give you grip on the fabric and let you slide the sock up by rubbing, not pulling.
• Use a sock aid (donning aid). You load the sock onto a frame, put your foot in, and pull the handles to draw the sock up. There are versions made for compression socks.
• Prop your foot up on a low stool so you don't have to bend as far.
• Try a slippery "donning sock" or silky liner over your foot first. The compression sock slides over it, and you pull the liner out through the toe.
• Choose a lighter strength. 8-15 or 15-20 mmHg is far easier to get on than 20-30 mmHg. See compression levels explained.
• Consider an open-toe style if getting over your toes is the hard part. Read about toeless compression socks.

Tips for seniors and anyone with arthritis

• Put them on before you get dressed, after a few minutes of moving around in the morning.
• Take your time. Rushing is when people overbalance or tear the fabric.
• Keep nails trimmed and take off rings, which can snag the knit.
• If you can't manage on your own, a family member or carer can help, and a doctor or nurse can show you both the easiest method.
• If you still can't get them on comfortably, ask about a lighter strength or a different size. The right sock should be snug, not a fight.

How to take compression socks off

1. Sit down.
2. Fold the top down over itself and peel the sock down your leg, turning it inside out.
3. Ease it over the heel, then off the foot.
4. Check your feet and legs for redness, marks or sore spots, especially if you have diabetes or reduced feeling in your feet.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Pulling from the top. This bunches the fabric at the ankle and makes it too tight there.
• Folding the top over. A doubled band acts like a tourniquet.
• Putting them on late in the day. Once your legs have swollen, they're harder to get on and less comfortable.
• Wearing the wrong size. Measure your calf and ankle with our compression socks size chart.

Compression socks that are easier to live with

Our men's and women's over-the-calf compression socks come in three strengths, so you can pick one you can put on comfortably, and you can mix strengths across pairs. They're graduated, breathable, made in Alabama and ship free. Browse the compression collection.

Frequently asked questions

Why are compression socks so hard to put on?

They're designed to be snug, especially at the ankle. Rolling them on gradually, using rubber gloves, and choosing a lighter strength all make a big difference.

Should I put compression socks on in the morning or at night?

In the morning. Your legs are least swollen then. Take them off before bed unless your doctor says otherwise.

Can I put lotion on before compression socks?

It's better to moisturize at night. Lotion makes socks harder to put on and can wear the fabric.

Is there a tool to help put on compression socks?

Yes. Sock aids (donning aids), donning gloves and slippery donning sleeves are all made for this.

This article is general information, not medical advice. Updated September 2026.